Made Things

by Adrian Tchaikovsky
Made Things cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Fantasy
Technical:
  • ID: 1090
  • Added: 2025-09-25
  • Updated: 2025-09-25
  • ISBN: 9781250232984
  • Publisher: Macmillan + ORM
  • Published: 2025-09-23
  • Reviews: 3

Welcome to Fountains Parish, a city where ambition fades and desperation thrives. Coppelia, a cunning street thief, navigates this harsh world with the help of her unusual companions—tiny, puppet-like beings made of wood and metal. Their partnership is uneasy but effective, until a shocking discovery forces them to question everything they know. As they delve deeper into the mysteries of their world, they must also confront a new and seemingly unstoppable danger that threatens their city. With the fate of Fountains Parish hanging in the balance, Coppelia and her friends embark on a journey that will test their courage, loyalty, and understanding of their own existence.

Reviews
Fantasy Literature · 2019-11-19
whimsical 4.00

The book is noted for its lighter tone compared to the author's previous works, despite containing violence. The reviewer enjoys the blend of whimsy and serious themes, making it a unique and enjoyable read.

This reviewer finds 'Made Things' to be a much lighter work compared to the author's previous intense novels, yet it still manages to incorporate a fair amount of violence and dark themes. The blend of whimsy and seriousness creates a unique and enjoyable reading experience. They appreciate the way the story balances these elements, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. The reviewer also notes the rich world-building and the engaging characters that make the story stand out.

Quick quotes

    After the horror-steeped intensity of Walking to Aldebaran, Made Things feels like a much lighter work, despite a fair amount of violence and dark themes.

    The blend of whimsy and seriousness creates a unique and enjoyable reading experience.

    The rich world-building and engaging characters make 'Made Things' a standout read.

Books, Bones, Buffy · Tammy · 2019-11-11
whimsical 4.00

The story is described as delightfully rough and dangerous, with magical creatures that capture the heart. The reviewer appreciates the unique take on fantasy and the emotional depth of the characters.

Tammy describes 'Made Things' as a delightfully rough and dangerous story that manages to be both whimsical and dark. The magical, animated creatures are particularly captivating, and she feels they add a unique charm to the narrative. The emotional depth and the way the characters are developed resonate with her, making the story both engaging and memorable. She appreciates the balance between the lighthearted and the serious elements, which creates a rich and enjoyable reading experience.

Quick quotes

    A delightfully rough and dangerous story with magical, animated creatures who captured my heart.

    The care and attention given to the puppets and their world is evident in every page.

    Made Things is a whimsical yet dark fantasy tale full of magic and heart.

Civilian Reader · 2019-09-15
excellent 4.50

The book is praised for its engaging world-building and unique magic system, which adds depth to the story. The political intrigue and character development are highlighted as particularly strong points.

This reviewer found 'Made Things' to be an excellent short fantasy novella that introduces a captivating new world. The magic and politics are particularly intriguing, and the author's ability to create a rich setting in a limited space is commendable. They appreciate the detailed crafting of the puppets and the overall adventure that feels both whimsical and grounded. The story's ability to blend different elements seamlessly makes it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    Made Things is an excellent short fantasy novella, one that introduces us to a new world, with interesting magic and politics.

    The care that went into describing and thinking about the puppets – made from wood, metal, paper, cloth, and other materials – is evident.

    Overall, then: Made Things is an excellent short fantasy novella.

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